8th Feb 2025
"Look, Dad!" Rashed exclaimed, pointing at all the colorful stalls in the old Souq Al-Mubarakiya. His eyes were wide with excitement as he tugged on his father's hand. "I can’t wait to see everything!" With his small size and a traditional suffocation-thobe perfectly fitted, he smiled up at his dad, who looked down with a warm grin, ready to explore together.
As they wandered through the market, Rashed noticed a small bag lying on the ground. The bag was bright red with golden designs that sparkled in the sunlight. "Dad, look!" he shouted, rushing over to pick it up. His hands were tiny compared to the bag, showcasing his innocence as he opened it and gasped when he saw the money inside.
Rashed hesitated, still holding the bag tightly. "Dad, should we take it?" he asked with a worried face, looking up at his father. His father knelt down and smiled gently, saying, "My son, we have to be honest and find out who it belongs to. It’s important to do the right thing." Rashed nodded, considering his father’s words with a thoughtful expression.
Together, they approached some vendors nearby. Rashed's eyes darted around, searching for someone who might know about the lost bag. He spotted an old man with a kind face, who was looking around worriedly. Rashed took a deep breath and carefully walked over to him, feeling brave despite his small size.
"Excuse me, sir!" Rashed called out, his voice clear but a bit shaky. The old man turned to him with hope in his eyes. "Have you lost something?" Rashed asked, his little heart pounding. He was eager to help, standing tall with determination while trying to reach the man's gaze despite their size difference.
When Rashed presented the bag to the old man, he immediately brightened up. "Oh, my bag!" the man exclaimed. "I thought I lost it forever! Thank you, little one!" Rashed beamed with pride, feeling like a hero as he handed it over. The joy on the old man's face warmed his heart, making the moment even sweeter.
The old man smiled widely. "You have done a great deed today, Rashed! Always remember that honesty is the best way to live," he said. Rashed nodded, feeling more confident than ever. It felt special to do the right thing, and he felt like he was floating on air as he listened to the old man's words.
Later at school, Rashed shared his story with his friends. "Guess what! I found a bag and gave it back to its owner in the market!" he said, his face shining with excitement. He stood proudly in his suffocation-thobe, feeling taller than before. His friends gathered around him, their eyes wide with admiration, making Rashed feel strong and confident.
Rashed smiled at his friends. "Always be honest!" he said. His friends nodded, soaking in the lesson. He felt proud of himself, knowing he had learned something valuable that day, something that would stay with him forever. He had not just returned a bag but had also learned what it means to be honest.
As he walked home, Rashed glanced at the bustling market one last time, filled with a sense of accomplishment. He realized that being small didn’t matter when you have a big heart. Going home, his heart sang, ready for more adventures, knowing he would always choose the right path.